Do the UK have air marshals?

Yes, the United Kingdom does have air marshals, who are part of a specialized program aimed at ensuring the safety and security of commercial flights. The responsibility for this program falls under the Metropolitan Police Service's Specialist Firearms Command, known as SO19. This unit operates the Aircraft Protection Operations (APO) Program, which is designed to prevent and respond to potential threats on board aircraft. Air marshals in the UK are trained law enforcement officers who are deployed on flights to provide an additional layer of security. They work discreetly among passengers, ready to intervene in case of any suspicious activity or threats to the safety of the aircraft. The presence of air marshals is a crucial component of the UK's broader aviation security strategy, which aims to protect both passengers and crew from potential dangers during air travel.